Michael Page is aiming for a high-profile welterweight clash in his next UFC appearance, specifically targeting a seasoned veteran of the division.
Fresh off a unanimous decision victory over Shara Magomedov in a middleweight detour at UFC Fight Night Saudi Arabia last month, Page is eager to return to the 170-pound weight class.
"MVP" has identified former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman and the often-controversial Colby Covington as prime candidates for his next opponent. These potential matchups offer both significant name recognition and the opportunity for Page to establish himself against longtime figures within the UFC's welterweight ranks.
I haven’t a clue (what’s next), but everyone seems silent at the moment,” Michael Page said at a UFC fan Q&A. “I don’t know if that last fight has worried a few people, but everyone seems a bit silent. There’s many names out there.
“I think me and Usman would be a good fight. I want to punch Colby in his face for some reason. I don’t know why. There’s guys out there. I’m just waiting for them to respond to the call.
Usman, having last competed in October 2023 with a majority decision loss to Khamzat Chimaev in a middleweight bout, faces a three-fight losing skid. Despite this, he has hinted at a return to competition within the year.
Covington, meanwhile, has emerged as a potential opponent for Michael Page after his setback to Joaquin Buckley last December. The Londoner has expressed considerable interest in this matchup, citing Covington's controversial reputation as a significant draw.
I’m hoping for a repeat of a jumping knee to the face,” Page said. “You all saw how that went, so I’m hoping that way.
At 37, Page is eager to maintain a busy schedule. He has expressed a desire to return to the octagon at the earliest opportunity.
If I can get two more fights in (this year) that would be great,” Page said. “I’m trying to get one as soon as possible. There’s shows in May that I want to be on, and again at the end of the year. So two more fights, definitely.